Flights to Edinburgh

Everyone says Edinburgh has two sides, and we reckon you’ll absolutely love each of them. Book flights to Edinburgh and get to know them both – the ‘Athens of The North’ Edinburgh full of high-culture and incredible architecture, and the ‘Auld Reekie’ Edinburgh, the one that’s fun and down to earth and full of pubs, clubs and world famous festivals! The city can be whatever you want it to be, so book flights to Edinburgh with Ryanair and find out what it is to you.

Flights from Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a compact city, easily explored on foot. The city with its seven hills is of course characterised by Edinburgh Castle which is Scotland’s most popular tourist attraction. The world-famous Edinburgh Military Tattoo takes place at the entrance to the Castle Esplanade for three weeks in August during the summer festivals every year, while colourful fireworks displays are set off from the ramparts at Hogmanay.

Edinburgh Castle

Towering majestically over the city, the iconic castle will fascinate you with its mix of Royal palace, historic fortress and war museum. See the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny and medieval siege gun Mons Meg before admiring the view across Edinburgh.

The principle of the camera obscura have been known for over 900 years, but still fascinates young and old. On over five floors of attractions you can shrink yourself or step into the dark room and spy on people in the street outside!

Uncover the secrets of Scotland’s national drink at the Scotch Whisky Experience. Take a unique tour through a replica distillery in their Whisky Barrel Ride before learning more about the whisky regions of Scotland and enjoying a dram as you marvel at the world’s largest collection of Scotch whisky.

Under the guidance of a pale guide in black robe, you will get to know all about the plague, war, insurrection and other mischief through the centuries. It may sound depressing but the popularity of the walks testify to the contrary.

For a mysterious journey through myth and legend, visit Rosslyn Chapel, featured prominently in Dan Brown’s international bestseller The Da Vinci Code. Hear the intriguing tales behind Rosslyn’s beautiful and ornate carvings before taking a peaceful walk in Roslin Glen.

National Museum of Scotland is a real family adventure. In their galleries you can watch ancient Egyptian mummies, the skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus Rex and specimens collected by Charles Darwin. See their website to know what kind of exhibition is ongoing.

Explore the lives of over 1,000 exciting animals from all over the world. Watch giant pandas, penguins and other brilliant birds or take part in some of all interactive events Edinburgh Zoo offers. Don't miss Edinburgh Zoo gardens inside the park with all its beautiful flowers and plants.

In the Holyrood area at the bottom of Royal Mile, The Scottish Parliament lies. The building has won awards for its striking design. Here you can learn about Scotland's political history, watch live debates and well as wonder at its unique architecture. If you want to watch the members of the Scottish Parliament in action booking in advance is recommended.

Escape the city and watch the beautiful Scottish scenery from a bike. You can go directly from Edinburgh city centre and there are paths for all levels of fitness, coloured coded to be easy to follow. One of the best areas for off-road cycling is the Pentland Hills Regional Park just outside of Edinburgh.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

At the very first beginning in 1128 the place where Palace of Holyroodhouse lies was an Augustinian abbey. Today you see a grand Baroque palace at this spot. The building is very important to the history of Scotland and during Holyrood week in the summer The Queen herself stays here.

Walking through different discovery centre zones with mini presentations and experienced staff you will get a real wildlife adventure. There are also seasonal boat trips and for the kid's there are three aquaria and a kids zone.

There are many beautiful parks and gardens in Edinburgh but the one you have to visit before leaving the city is the Royal Botanic Garden. With 70 acres of beautiful gardens they represent one of the world’s largest living collections of plants.

Join one of the backstage tours or watch one of the shows playing. The Festival Theatre built with a front of glass in 1994 hosts a theatre with 1,900 seats. The stage is the largest in Scotland and it is one of the leading dance houses in the world.

The Old Town is Edinburgh´s oldest neighbourhood with many historic monuments, narrow streets and lovely shops and pubs with tons of personality. The hills around the city, the structure and long central street Royal mile is like nothing you ever seen.

​Address: Old Town, Edinburgh

Gilmerton Cove

Gilmerton Cove is one of the most intriguing sights in Edinburgh. Gilmerton Cove are many different chambers hidden under the streets of south Edinburgh and have been a mystery for tourists and archaeologists for more than 300 years.

A visit to the Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh is a must. The views are outstanding and they are located right in the centre of Edinburgh´s World Heritage Site, take a walk through or, even better, sit down for a picnic on one of the benches.

​Address: Princes St, Edinburgh​Phone: +44 131 529 7921

Dominion Cinema

With beautiful architectonical features, the Dominion Cinema has a modern interior. Just try the sofas that are big enough to cuddle with your loved one, especially on a rainy day while enjoying a big popcorn.

Explore a fantastic floating museum and follow in the footsteps of royalty at the Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh’s historic port of Leith. With your own audio tour you can gain a glimpse into the life of the British Royal Family before enjoying tea in the Royal Deck Tea Room.

Edinburgh is the perfect city to dine out in style, with a spectacular variety of restaurants serving up mouth-watering cuisine in atmospheric surroundings. Whether you are looking for Michelin-starred dining, hearty Scottish fare or food from around the globe with a uniquely Scottish twist, you’ll find delicious dishes to suit every taste and every budget.

Centotre

Here you can enjoy dishes from a tasty Italian cuisine. Lovely pasta dishes with innovative sauces, delicious pizzas and fresh fish served in combination with lovely Italian wines. Dessert menu offers, among other things, homemade tiramisu and an Italian ice cream.

Since the gourmet restaurant Number One opened in early 2004 they have won several awards. Among other things, Chef Jeff Bland and his team has received a Michelin star. The restaurant is located in the five star Balmoral Hotel.

Located right in the heart of the city, the Mussel Inn is another firm favourite with locals and visitors alike, who adore their simply-prepared seafood and fish dishes, made using only the freshest catches from Scottish seas.

Craving for a delicious burger and a cold beer The Holyrood 9A is the place to go. In the centre of Edinburgh's old town this cosy restaurant with an open fire offers a menu of American burgers and more than 20 different beer and ale varieties.

Choose to sit at the open kitchen counter or in the dining room, whatever you decide you will be served the best traditional Japanese dishes such as sushi and tempura. The word Kanpai means literally "bottoms up" and is the word for "Cheers" in Japanese.

A true Scottish restaurant serving the traditional dish Haggis. But don't worry, if you don't feel dare enough to try the dish made from sheep guts the menu also provides the finest of salmon, Aberdeen Angus beef and other dishes spiced with herbs from the owners own garden.

With only Thai chefs cooking the food at this Thai restaurants they can brag with serving the best Thai food in Edinburgh. In a relaxed atmosphere you get served dishes made from the finest and freshest ingredients.

This cosy basement restaurant is a real Edinburgh institution. Savour delicious, wholesome vegetarian dishes as you enjoy evening performances from local musicians. Or, if you have a busy day of exploring ahead, visit their popular deli upstairs for a tasty, nutritious lunch ‘to go’.

For a classic yet imaginative menu featuring the very best of Scottish produce in a historic 16th century building at the gates of Edinburgh Castle, look no further than this award-winning The Witchery by the Castle.

Best-selling author JK Rowling gained inspiration for her magical Harry Potter novels as she sipped coffee in cafés such as the Elephant House. And you will soon see why, when you stop for a bite to eat in Edinburgh’s cosy cafes.

Elephant House

This much-loved Edinburgh institution is decorated with over 600 elephants in all shapes and sizes as well as serving coffee and tea from all corners of the earth. Take a seat in the back room to enjoy a magical view of Edinburgh Castle.

For Mimi, baking is an art form, and she loves to experiment and come up with exciting new recipes. An example of this inventive joy is the chocolate beetroot cake. Why not try one to your afternoon tea?

The Two Thin Laddies easily catch your eye with their brightly painted yellow walls. This place is extra popular on the weekends, when people storm the place for a hearty breakfast, or brunch, if it’s difficult to get out of bed.

​Address: 103 High Riggs, West End, Edinburgh​Phone: +44 131 229 0653

Loopy Lorna´s Tea House

You can’t beat a nice cup of tea! This café aims to make you feel at home, surrounded by the sweet scent of hot-baked scones straight from the oven. Quality loose leaf teas and cakes made from family and traditional recipes are a few of the things that will make you want to come back for more.

​Address: 33a Morningside Road, Edinburgh​Phone: +44 131 447 3042

From traditional pubs offering real ales and leafy beer gardens to upmarket cocktail bars, Edinburgh’s bars and pubs are second to none. This thriving, modern capital city is also renowned for its nightlife, so whether you’re looking for top comedy, a traditional ceilidh -a Gaelic gathering with folk music and dancing, or an unforgettable club night, you are sure to find it here.

The Bongo Club

A real institution in Edinburgh’s music scene. Since 1996 this cult nightclub and live music venue has specialised in offbeat club nights and showcasing new talent. Check their website to see upcoming gigs.

Stand-up comedy fans will love this relaxed basement venue, the best place in town to see local, national and international comedians. The club is open seven days a week and on Sunday lunch the scene is open for anyone.

An After Work on a Friday is a great way to feel like a true local and this is the place to go to. The DJ has a special way to ease you into the weekend, or if you are in a party mood, gives you a great start to your night.

Not only do they host the biggest karaoke nights and have their own version of X-Factor on Sundays, but they are true sports fans and have a DJ that takes requests via Twitter. Please note that children are not welcome after 20.00.

Bailie Bar takes particular pride in their cask ale that first and fore most come from Scottish brewers. Come here early for a juicy tasting burger or lovely stuffed chicken before taking a second glance at the drink menu.

52 Canoes Tiki Den is a type of place that is a bit quiet on week nights but comes to life on weekends. The atmosphere is described as "urban beach hut vibe" where, of course, the cocktails are centre of attention.

​Address: 13 Melville Pl, Edinburgh​Phone: +44 131 226 4732

99 Hanover Street

99 Hanover Street is located in New Town and is well-known for its "Ruby Tuesdays", where the up and coming musical talents perform. Their cocktails are creative and the selection of spirits are endless.

This is not just a hotel or a bar, it is a fashion spot. Bar Missoni is all about design and high class, not only do they have a great selected drink menu but take your time to appreciate the details throughout the bar.

This is Michael Neave first restaurant, and what a place! The food is amazing with products from local farmers, but the whiskey bar is heaven for whiskey lovers. Do not worry, they have a big selection of rum and gin as well if you do not fancy whiskey.

Opal Lounge has a lot going for it, but let´s start with the most important things. They have an award winning cocktail mixologist, always ready to give you a good night any day of the week, open till late and if there is any celebrity in town, then this is the place to spot them at.

For a truly Scottish experience, treat yourself to dinner and a pint before enjoying a lively ceilidh -a Gaelic gathering with folk music and dancing at this traditional yet strikingly modern Scottish pub and live entertainment venue.

This unique venue is made up of a series of vaults steeped in history, and has built up an enviable reputation with its club nights and intimate music gigs. The different rooms, being used as stables or storing whisky, hides stories from the past.

Edinburgh is the perfect place to indulge in some serious retail therapy and pick up memorable gifts for family and friends - and as the city is so compact, you’ll find it easy to explore on foot and take in your spectacular surroundings.
Classy George Street is the place to go for designer labels, while high-end couture such as Louis Vuitton and Versace can be found on the prestigious Multrees Walk or in luxury shop Harvey Nichols. Nearby, Jenners department store is a real Edinburgh institution offering ranges available nowhere else in Scotland in a grand Victorian building.

Traditional Scottish souvenirs

If you are looking for mementos and traditional Scottish souvenirs, head to the cobbled streets of the Old Town - the Royal Mile is packed with shops selling Scottish specialities such as luxuriously soft cashmere, kilts, bagpipes and whisky.

​Address: Royal Mile, Edinburgh

Closes

Do not miss the small streets, so-called 'closes', which not only hides cosy backyards but also cheese shops, jewellers and kilt designers. When you get tired of shopping can easily gain new strength from a bag of shortbread, the typically Scottish biscuits which are sold everywhere.

Victoria Street

Close to the Royal Mile, explore the attractive Victoria Street, where brightly-coloured shops contain a treasure trove of shopping delights. Pick up artisan cheeses, cutting edge fashions and authentically Scottish designs. More quirky boutiques can be found in areas such as Stockbridge or the West End.

​Address: Victoria Street, Edinburgh

Jenners - House of Fraser

Jenners - House of Fraser is one of the top leading department stores in UK. Here you will find a sophisticated range of brands both within clothing fashion and interior design.

Princes Mall is located right next to the Waverley Station. It is a shopping destination for both shopping fans and food lovers. Here you will find brands such as Oasis, Lipsy, Superdry, and Warehouse.

Beautiful design comes natural to Sheila Fleet, the designer of these lovely pieces of jewellery. Her design is clearly inspired by the sea, sky and landscape colours, and you will most likely walk out of here with a special piece in your hand.

If you want to take a piece of Scotland with you home, then it is Heritage of Scotland that you should visit. They have kilts, bagpipes, rugby shirts, Celtic and Scottish jewellery, suits of armour and much much more.

At Cranachan & Crowdie you will be met by very charming staff that welcomes you to a selection of the finest Scottish food and drinks. Not only do they have a wide range of whiskey, ale, vodka and gin but also the best shortbread, Tunnocks caramel wafers and venison, the list just keeps on going.

Miss Katie Cupcake is a vintage paradise with handmade jewellery, vintage books and knick-knacks that you thought that you did not need but really do. It is one of the cutest shops in the city so make sure that you pay it a visit.

There are many stores where you can go for a good selection of whiskey, but Cadenhead Whisky comes well-recommended by the locals. The staff is very knowledgeable and will give you a great insight to all the different selections.

Fudge, fudge, fudge, welcome to fudge heaven! The most popular flavours are salted caramel and peanut butter, and if you are not sure that these are your cup of tea, of course you can first try a small piece. The best part is that you can even make your own fudge!

In the middle of the Old Town in Edinburgh you will find this Grassmarket area. This is a must for anyone who loves to shop and find unique bargains that you will not find anywhere else in the city. When you feel that you need a break there are many restaurants around where you can rest your feet.

​Address: Old Town, Edinburgh

The Marshmallow Lady

From fudge to marshmallows, here in Edinburgh you are really in for a treat. It is hard to find more fluffy and tasty marshmallows than these, made with love and only with local ingredients. Do you dare to taste the beer flavoured marshmallow? If not, maybe the chocolate mousse sounds more appealing?

Edinburgh Farmers' Market is a lovely way to spend a Saturday morning. Stroll around among the different stalls and buy some fresh fruits or sweet pastry’s and enjoy the atmosphere with a cup of coffee.

At this studio you can experience different interesting exhibitions from contemporary artists around Edinburgh. Downstairs you will find a second gallery and in the cafe you can enjoy a cup of coffee and choose among plenty of sweet treats.

Edinburgh Airport is only 11km west of the city, but it will take nearly 25-30 minutes to get to the city regardless of whether you go by bus, taxi or hire car.
The Airlink express bus no. 100 costs £3.50 single and £6 return. It departs every 30 minutes in the evening and at night, but every 10 minutes during the day.
Taxi prices to and from the airport vary and many of the vehicles are adapted for disabled people. Cars can be hired 24 hours and are easy to book in advance via the airport website.